India · UNESCO Heritage Sites

Full-Day Mahabalipuram Sightseeing Tour with Shore Temple Sunset

1 Day Round trip from Beach Rd Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mahabalipuram
  • 02 Discover ancient temples, including the Shore Temple and Pancha Rathas
  • 03 Explore intricate rock carvings at Krishna Mandapam and Varaha Cave Temple
  • 04 Enjoy a relaxing visit to Mahabalipuram Beach
  • 05 Watch a stunning sunset at the Shore Temple

Explore Mahabalipuram's UNESCO-listed monuments on a full-day sightseeing tour from Chennai. Visit the ancient Shore Temple by the Bay of Bengal, discover the remarkable rock-cut Pancha Rathas, and marvel at Arjuna's Penance, one of India's largest bas-relief sculptures. Continue to Krishna Mandapam and Varaha Cave Temple to admire more intricate carvings and historical artistry. The day also includes time to relax at Mahabalipuram Beach and enjoy a mesmerizing sunset at the iconic Shore Temple.

Explore Mahabalipuram's UNESCO-listed monuments on a full-day sightseeing tour from Chennai.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Chennai, Mahabalipuram
Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Mahabalipuram Heritage and Coastal Sightseeing

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Hotel Pick-up
    • Begin your day with a hotel pick-up. If you're staying in Chennai, your driver will arrive at your hotel at around 7:00 AM.
    • Relax during the drive, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your location and traffic.
  • 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Mamalla Bhavan or a Local Café
    • After reaching Mahabalipuram, start your day with a quick breakfast at Mamalla Bhavan or A2B.
    • Enjoy traditional South Indian breakfast items like idli, dosa, and vadas.
  • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit the Shore Temple
    • Begin your sightseeing at the Shore Temple, an ancient temple by the Bay of Bengal.
    • Spend time admiring the intricate carvings, enjoying the view of the ocean, and learning about its historical significance.
  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore the Pancha Rathas
    • After visiting the Shore Temple, head to the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), a set of beautiful rock-cut temples.
    • Take your time exploring each of the five chariot-like structures, which are dedicated to different deities and showcase amazing craftsmanship.
  • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Visit Arjuna's Penance
    • Proceed to Arjuna's Penance, the famous bas-relief sculpture depicting a story from the Mahabharata.
    • Marvel at the fine details of the carving, one of the largest in India, portraying numerous gods and animals.
  • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Lunch at Hotel Mamalla Heritage
    • Enjoy a hearty buffet lunch at Hotel Mamalla Heritage, a well-known hotel and restaurant in Mahabalipuram.
    • The buffet offers a variety of South Indian dishes, including seafood, vegetarian options, and traditional items like sambar, rasam, curd rice, and more.
  • 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit Krishna Mandapam and Other Sculptures
    • After lunch, head to Krishna Mandapam, a cave temple with beautiful carvings of Lord Krishna's childhood stories.
    • Explore the nearby Varaha Cave Temple and admire its intricate rock carvings.
  • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Relax at the Beach
    • Take some time to unwind at Mahabalipuram Beach.
    • Relax by the shore, take a stroll, or simply enjoy the sea breeze.
  • 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Sunset at the Shore Temple
    • Head back to the Shore Temple for a perfect view of the sunset.
    • Capture photos of the temple and the ocean in the golden light of the setting sun.
  • 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Hotel Drop-off
    • After sunset, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Chennai or your designated drop-off point.
    • The drive back to Chennai takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • 7:00 PM: Arrival at Hotel
    • Arrive back at your hotel, concluding your memorable day trip to Mahabalipuram.
Shore Temple by the Bay of Bengal, Pancha Rathas rock-cut temples, Arjuna's Penance bas-relief, Mahabalipuram Beach

Where this trip takes you

Shore Temple by the Bay of Bengal, Pancha Rathas rock-cut temples, Arjuna's Penance bas-relief, Mahabalipuram Beach

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Beach Rd 2 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Chennai or nearby areas.
  • Comfortable, air-conditioned transport by car, van, or bus depending on the number of guests.
  • Visits to key attractions like the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), Arjuna's Penance (Descent of the Ganges), Krishna Mandapam, and Varaha Cave Temple.
  • Entry to all listed monuments and temples.
  • Buffet lunch at Hotel Mamalla Heritage with a variety of South Indian and local dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
  • Bottled water during the trip.
  • Comfortable seating in the vehicle with air conditioning.
  • All necessary taxes and entry fees for the listed attractions.

What's Not Included

  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, or personal shopping.
  • Additional food or beverages not included in the lunch buffet.
  • Tips and gratuities for the driver, guide, or any other staff.
  • Optional activities such as boating, extra visits to other attractions, or special cultural performances.

What to bring

Comfortable clothing

  • Light, breathable clothes: Since the weather can be warm and humid, opt for lightweight cotton clothes to stay cool.
  • Comfortable shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes or sandals, as you'll be exploring temples and monuments on foot. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for ease of walking over uneven terrain.

Sun protection

  • Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun's rays, especially if you're spending time outdoors at the beach or temples.
  • Hat or cap: A wide-brimmed hat or cap will help keep the sun off your face.
  • Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the bright sun.

Personal essentials

  • Water bottle: Stay hydrated during the trip. Carry a refillable water bottle, as bottled water is often available for purchase at stops.
  • Tissues or wet wipes: Useful for cleaning hands before eating or after visiting the temples.
  • Hand sanitizer: Good for quick hygiene when handwashing facilities aren't readily available.

Camera or smartphone

  • Camera or smartphone: Capture the stunning scenery, architecture, and historical monuments. Don't forget extra storage for photos.
  • Chargers: Ensure your phone or camera has sufficient battery, and bring a power bank if needed.

Hat and sunglasses

  • Hat or scarf: A light scarf or shawl can also be useful for covering your shoulders when visiting temples, especially if you wish to be respectful of local customs.
  • Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the sun.

Light snacks (optional)

  • If you get hungry between meals, consider packing some light snacks such as fruits, nuts, or energy bars.

Personal identification

  • ID proof: Carry a copy of your ID proof (Aadhar, passport, or any other government-issued ID) in case it is required.
  • Travel tickets: If you've pre-booked tickets or have a reservation, carry a copy, either physical or digital.

Cash/card

  • Cash or credit card: While many places accept cards, it's always good to carry some cash for small purchases or tipping.

Medication (if necessary)

  • If you require any medications, be sure to bring them with you. It's also a good idea to carry a basic first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, band-aids, and any personal medications.

Umbrella or raincoat (optional)

  • If you're traveling during the monsoon season (June-September), an umbrella or light raincoat can be helpful in case you encounter rain.

Small backpack or bag

  • A small backpack or crossbody bag to keep your essentials like water, sunscreen, camera, and snacks easily accessible.

Know before you go

Essentials to pack

  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
  • Water bottle and light snacks.
  • Camera or smartphone for pictures.
  • Cash for tickets, local shopping, and tips.

Important tips

  • Combination tickets are available for the Shore Temple, Five Rathas, and other monuments.
  • Most monuments are open from 6 AM to 6 PM.
  • Avoid touching or climbing on ancient structures.
  • Guide services can be added at an additional cost if requested.

Best time to visit

  • Winter months (October to March) are ideal due to the pleasant weather.
  • Avoid summer afternoons, as it gets hot.

Enjoy your day trip to Mahabalipuram. It's a mix of history, culture, and coastal charm.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India
Tour start
Beach Rd, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104, India
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 1 day finishes where it began, in Beach Rd.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.

Starting from

USD 60 /person
Book This Tour

When

Travellers

Total